Automotive body, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturer (SIAM) held its 58th annual convention 2018. While electric vehicles were the primary point of discussion at the 58th Annual SIAM Convention, there were also serious discussions deeming the CNG stations. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, who was also present at the convention announced that Indian government is planning to set-up 10,000 CNG stations in the country by 2030.
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It is indeed a great news for the commercial vehicle owners. That said, CNG-powered vehicles are used mostly by the cab-aggregators in India. A large of their fleet comprises of CNG models as it is a frugal optional for them. For those not in the know, currently there are just 1,424 CNG stations in the entire country which does not suffice for over 3 million CNG vehicles sold in India. The inappropriate proportion between the CNG vehicles and CNG stations in India itself speaks about the current situation which needs to be addressed as soon as possible. With fuel prices being increased continually over the past few months, most of the commercial vehicle owners are switching to CNG vehicles.
Among other benefits of CNG vehicles, cost-efficient being one of them, these are also low on carbon footprint (around 30 to 40 percent) as compared to the petrol or diesel powered vehicles. Unlike the crude oil, the CNG doesn’t need to be imported, which in turn contributes in the economy. In India, carmakers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai offer CNG powered vehicles. The government’s plan to set-up 10,000 CNG stations by 2030 would be a step forward in encouraging car giants to come up with CNG powered versions of their popular vehicles.